McCaul Statement on DHS Secretary Napolitano Resignation

Media Contact: Charlotte Sellmyer (202) 226-8417

Washington, D.C. – U.S. House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Michael McCaul (R-Texas) released the following statement on the resignation of Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano.

Chairman McCaul: “As our nation confronts difficult and complex issues such as immigration, border security, and international and homegrown terrorism, it is more important than ever to have a strong head of DHS who is dedicated to improving homeland security. The many agencies housed within DHS are only as effective as their leadership, and it is crucial that the Administration appoints someone who does not underestimate the threats against us, and who is committed to enforcing the law and creating a unified Department. Ten years after the creation of the Department, it is critical that its mission isn’t undermined by politics or political correctness. The border is not secure, and the threat of terrorism is not diminishing. The vision and actions of the Department must reflect that reality.

“While Secretary Napolitano and I have disagreed on issues like the security of the border, I respect and thank her for her service. Her departure is a substantial addition to the growing list of unfilled key leadership positions within the Department, and the Administration should move swiftly to fill the gaping holes in its management. I look forward to working with her successor to keep Americans safe, and continue to conduct oversight in order to improve the Department of Homeland Security.”